Project Description

Garde took on the challenge of creating a single work environment to bring together multiple brands with different identities and characteristics. This meant avoiding the temptation to express each brand individually and rather focus on elements that unite and reinforce the historical growth of the adidas group brand. Garde focused on 4 overarching concepts to drive the project design and create the ideal work environment:• Leverage the history and legacy of the adidas group brand to build a deeper understanding with consumers and staff and reinforce a one team culture• Seamlessly integrate sports and work to create a unique environment that reflects the values of adidas Group• Utilize technology to effortlessly share information among staff but also to easily change the brand message to consumers• Implement a best practice strategy to achieve an environmentally friendly and energy responsible workplace The reception is an unusual mix of fluid modern forms, hexagonal shapes, natural light, and natural materials that define a unique lifestyle of sports and work. The connection between past, present, and future is captured in a mosaic image of Adi Dassler (founder) made of 14,000 removable soccer cleats – the very same invention that jump-started the success of adidas back in the 1950’s. Typical office floors are organized around centralized “Communication Hub” lounges that are stacked vertically and connected by a communal stair branded with the founder’s 31 principals for success. Pantries, presentation rooms, and main product storage are also located here to create a myriad of situations for staff to interact with each other. One entire floor is dedicated to the showroom function that can accommodate year-around product events, a 500 person seminar, key account presentations, and houses 2 dedicated brand showrooms. The rooftop café is a concrete and weathered wood space designed to contrast against the glass and steel nature of the modern skyscraper. A converted warehouse feeling is created that allows staff to decompress as they look out over the open terrace with panoramic views of Tokyo. Shower facilities are also provided for participants in aerobic/crossfit sessions on the terrace and also for bicycle commuters.The design of the adidas Japan headquarters looks to the future while having an eye on the past. As the adidas Group continues to grow, change, and evolve over time, so will this unique design of this workplace environment. (Christopher Brooks, AIA, Garde USP)